The former One Show host, who runs his new comedy nights countrywide under the name Manford’s Comedy Clubs, took to social media earlier today to ask his Preston fans if they would like him to bring the venture here.

He posted: “Sooooo people of Preston. I understand your regular comedy club closed down recently and now you are laughter-less.

“Well I’ve found a city centre venue that could host a Manford’s Comedy Club on a regular basis but I just need a bit of reassurance that there’s enough support for it (after one already closed!).